Children can be diagnosed with ADHD from consuming pesticides

In May of 2010, a CNN report cited studies published in the journal Pediatrics that indicated that children with above-average levels of pesticides found in their urine, are twice as likely to develop ADHD. The primary source of pesticide consumption comes from commercially grown produce.

These studies were spearheaded by Dr. Maryse Bouchard, a researcher in the department of environmental and occupational health at the University of Montreal (CNN).

As part of weitzlux.com’s on-going commitment to provide you with the latest news on the health risks of pesticide consumption, we have compiled current information and resources. Please check back frequently for updates.

How pesticide consumption leads to ADHD

Pesticides affect a set of chemicals in the brain closely related to those involved in ADHD. Dr. Maryse Bouchard says that "it seems plausible that exposure to organophosphates could be associated with ADHD-like symptoms." Dr. Bouchard goes on to say that organophosphates are specifically designed to have adverse effects on the nervous system. “That’s how they kill pests,” the doctor explains.

In 2008, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported detectible levels of pesticides in 28 percent of frozen blueberries, 25 percent of strawberries, and 20 percent of celery.

Negative effects of ADHD

ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, makes it difficult for those afflicted to pay attention and control impulsive behavior. Drugs and behavioral therapy are often used to treat this condition. Having ADHD can contribute to the following problems in a child’s life:

Failing grades and/or trouble with school work

Forgetfulness

Difficulty developing relationships

Inability to complete tasks

Trouble planning ahead

Thoughtless impulsive actions

These problems can cause issues later in life like holding down a job, being in a loving relationship, and establishing a career path. Most children will not outgrow ADHD (familydoctor.org)

Disorders associated with ADHD

A child diagnosed with ADHD can develop, or has in conjunction, other disorders. The associated disorders are (New York Times):

Bipolar disorder

Anxiety disorder

Insomnia

Conduct disorder

Pervasive developmental disorder

Oppositional-defiant disorder

Growing up with ADHD

Amanda was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 30. This diagnosis helped to explain the erratic and risky behavior she engaged in during her teens and twenties. Amanda used to be a chronic drug abuser, binge drinker, and heavily sexually promiscuous. She also suffered from depression, and only barely passed school. Suffering from ADHD left Amanda completely unprepared for adult life (WebMD).

Unfortunately, any child with ADHD has the risk of suffering similar problems in life to Amanda.

What can be done?

A child who has developed ADHD because of pesticide consumption deserves compensation. A favorable verdict or settlement can cover the costs of medical bills, loss income, and any out-of-pocket expenses. If you wish to file a pesticide exposure case, contact Weitz & Luxenberg today.